Clinical trials show promise for new treatments in managing CKD and hypertension

New clinical trial data presented at ASN Kidney Week 2026 highlights two investigational treatments for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and related complications.

In the phase 3 Launch-HTN trial, lorundrostat, an aldosterone synthase inhibitor, demonstrated significant benefits for patients with CKD and uncontrolled hypertension. Subgroup analysis showed that a 50 mg daily dose reduced systolic blood pressure by 9.6 mm Hg and lowered the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) by 52.2% compared to a placebo.

Separately, results from the phase 2b TRANSCEND-CKD trial regarding retatrutide—a triple agonist targeting GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon receptors—showed a 49.2% reduction in UACR compared to placebo over 24 weeks. In adults with obesity or overweight and CKD, the treatment also reduced intraglomerular pressure and kidney fat, though it did not significantly change the measured glomerular filtration rate (mGFR).